subject: How To Choose Suitable Tires [print this page] Like everything, car tires dont last forever either. You go in for some regular car maintenance work and the mechanic informs you that you need to replace them too and all of a sudden youre confused and daunted by the task ahead due to lack of information and an overwhelming number of choices. They are of several different types and it is important that you choose the correct type that is suitable for your car, to avoid needing to purchase them again. Not only is this essential from an economical standpoint but it is also vital to make sure you make the correct choice for the safety of everyone who uses the car.
Know when you need to replace them:
You should trust your mechanic but a little tire knowledge wont hurt. A serious puncture, say more than a quarter of an inch deep, is definitely a cause for replacement. Then, bald tires that have worn away to the point where they have lost tread should also be changed and replaced with new ones. While most people try to use a tire for as long as they can, please know that driving with bald ones can be immensely dangerous. Sure, you want to save money but dont compromise on your safety. Set your priorities right. You can always get new ones for a great price.
Know what type you need:
You can easily determine the type of tires you need by checking either your drivers manual or by verifying from the door jamb of your cars driver door. A sticker on the door jamb will tell you the exact specifications of the set that the factory put on your car, eliminating the need for you to guess their size.
Make sure you understand tire sizes and formatting:
The top of your tires have a number printed onto them. While they may seem random or nonsensical to you at first glance, these do mean something. Suppose the number says P190/60R 16 82 H. This number holds a wealth of information.
P stands for Passenger and obviously tells you that your vehicle is a passenger car. Instead of P, it can also say LT (for light truck), T (for temporary) or E (that would be for a heavy duty truck).
The next number, 190, tells you how wide your tire is, in millimeters.
R is for Radial, a type of tire.
The rim size is calculated in inches which is 16.
82 is the load rating and H is the speed rating. These tell you how much pressure and speed they can handle and such ratings should not be taken lightly.
Tread life:
This is one of the best indicators of tire life. The longer the tread life, the longer they will last.
Research:
Online reviews from autophiles should help you figure out what type of tires to purchase.
Keep a budget and the type in mind from the very start. Know what to spend on what type of tire, such as all weather or long lasting or snow tires.
